8/10

Vitamin C

Obvious signs of vitamin C deficiency—swollen, bleeding gums and limb pain—typically don’t appear unless daily intake is very low (below 10 mg) for several weeks. But preliminary research suggests suboptimal intake may contribute to low-back pain because your body needs vitamin C for healthy ligaments, tendons and bones.

Tip: Try a “liposomal” vitamin C supplement to maximize your cells’ uptake of the vitamin. Liposomal supplements use an encapsulation technology that helps your body better absorb easily excreted nutrients.

Daily dose: 200–2,000 mg non-GMO vitamin C

Try: Dr. Mercola Liposomal Vitamin C